Natural Features in Texas

The Brazos at Waco

Transport·McLennan County·Texas

The Brazos is the longest river entirely within Texas at about 840 miles, and this crossing is why Waco is here. The suspension bridge just upstream opened in 1870 with a single span of 475 feet — the longest suspension span west of the Mississippi at the time — built with around three million bricks fired on site because there was no railroad to bring materials in. Herds on the Chisholm Trail paid a toll to cross it rather than swim the river.

Getting there

31.5580, -97.1260

Locations are approximate and may be inaccurate, on private land, or otherwise inaccessible. Check before you travel.

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